While the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) has implemented measures to manage the demand and costs of importing electricity, copper thieves are reportedly taking advantage of the scheduled load shedding.
The load shedding, which is part of EEC’s demand management strategy, occurs daily between 6am–7am and 6pm–8pm, affecting various areas, including Sitsatsaweni.
Theft and Darkness
Residents in Sitsatsaweni have reported a rise in copper cable theft since the load shedding began.
Comfort Mdluli, a resident, said several homesteads were left without electricity for days after thieves stole cables from poles—mainly during evening outages.
“We had a number of homesteads and a shop left without electricity last week after thieves cut off electricity cables from the poles,” said Mdluli.
The ongoing theft has also caused food spoilage in affected homes as families wait for power to be restored.
Crime on the Rise
In addition to cable theft, the community has seen an increase in housebreaking and theft, both during the day and night.
Kaizer Mathonsi, leader of the Lugongolweni community police, confirmed they are reinforcing strategies to curb the crime wave, especially during evening blackouts.
“We are aware of criminals taking advantage of the dark hours, and our members are working to counter these criminal activities,” said Mathonsi.
However, Mathonsi lamented the lack of basic equipment such as torches and whistles, which are essential for night patrols and alerting fellow community officers.
A Call for Caution
Mathonsi advised small business owners to properly secure their premises at night or consider hiring private security guards.
“Some shops are left unattended overnight, making them easy targets for criminals,” he warned.
With both infrastructure and safety at risk, communities are calling for greater vigilance and support to deter criminals exploiting Eswatini’s current power situation.
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